From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Hillsboro, il

I grew 2 plants last year both put on pumpkins but vine borers got them. I didnt do anything to prep the soil what should I start with?

10/28/2018 1:55:21 PM

Dillonvale, Ohio

A soil test. Those will determine what to add. If no soil test, add compost and/or cow manure/composted manure. Make sure to do a spring soil test as well

10/28/2018 3:34:47 PM

Deer Park WA

Yes do a soil test and try and add adjustments this winter to get your pH to 6.7 to 7.0 by spring. Compost is always good and a cover crop of winter rye will certianly get tou on your way for a whopper next year!

10/29/2018 12:26:37 AM

Upa Creek, Mo

Yes, soil test now. Lots of people use Western Labs, I like UMASS. And being from Hillsboro, get Matt Hughes over there this spring and get the soil tilled deep with the amendments.

10/29/2018 8:41:48 AM

Hillsboro, il

When I get it tested will the tester have advice on what to add or should I just look it up? And how long/how much does the test take

10/29/2018 2:50:24 PM

Dillonvale, Ohio

I use Waypoint analytical, once they have the soil, you get the results the next day. Then http://www.team-pumpkin.org go to the download page and download the soil amendment estimator.

10/29/2018 8:44:58 PM

Dillonvale, Ohio

Get yourself used to that download, it can definitely be overwhelming. Don't try to get your soil perfect, I don't think it's possible. But over a couple years, you can get it close.

10/29/2018 8:46:30 PM

Deer Park WA

We use A & L labs in Portland and use the graphical analysis with recomendations. I must admit we usually add more than what the lab recommends if we think we are a bit low in some areas. I see if I can post my fall test on our diary. (Dont judge me LoL)...

10/29/2018 9:16:49 PM

Hillsboro, il

What about compost guys? Is bagged from the store ok? If so what kind and if not where should I look

11/5/2018 8:47:45 PM

Anamosa, IA BPIowegian@aol.com

Bagged compost is OK but can get expensive unless you run into a good clearance sale. I get mine by the truck load from Cedar Rapids - Linn County. It is tested and they post the test results and analysis on their website. It has always been good for my garden. You have to be careful where you get compost. A couple of very good growers in Iowa got their compost from a private business. It was not fully done breaking down and ended up burning most of their plants this year.

11/5/2018 10:04:51 PM